Hello out there
 

I've been on SR for a while, I recognized several people I talk to in other fora. But I've never ventured into the anxiety disorders area until now.

I've definitely always had some level of social phobia, I'm usually pretty shy. And for a while during and after I used drugs I think I had depression, maybe? Last spring I had a few panic attacks, but early in the summer all the depression and anxiety just sorta went away. I woke up one morning and all was right with the world again, for the first time in a couple years.

Now I'm not doing so well again. I feel like I've been on the edge of a panic attack for several days, though I am handling it a lot better than I was before. Like, I'm not randomly breaking down in crying fits every day now. Only maybe every other day? Haha

Anyway, I'm not sure what this has to do with anything, I guess I'm just saying hi here since I decided to come in and it seemed like it might be helpful. Thanks!

Hi gneiss. I suffered really bad anxiety about two weeks ago. It was hell to ride through but when I wasn't obligated to go out, I simply stayed home. Since then I saw a new doctor. It wasn't a perfect visit but we were able to talk briefly and I was given some medication that keeps it in control. Hope you also find something that helps.

Anxiety has been a lifelong issue for me as well. I take something for it, however it is very addictive and therefore a double edged sword. However my life has changed because of it. I am in the process of weaning off of it while trying to transition to a pill free way of handling anxiety. Walking, diet and meditation have been helpful in the past. Also when I am really distraught, or OCD is kicking in- I try to figure out a puzzle, riddle, or word problem to get my focus elsewhere. I have several books for just that purpose. Of course that's only at home but it still helps. And sometimes I just clutch a stuffed animal and tell myself it's just chemicals, and it will pass.